Will Hersheypark open for summer 2026? What a strike could mean

Families planning a trip to Hersheypark this summer are asking the same question: Will the park open – or should I cancel my trip?

The amusement park's summer opening may be threatened because of a high-stakes union dispute among more than 200 maintenance workers, who are voting on whether to strike just days before Hersheypark's opening for the summer 2026 season.

The possible delay of Hersheypark's summer opening stems from a union dispute, with a labor strike looming among employees including ride mechanics, electricians and technicians that could threaten operations. According to Inside the Magic, workers are voting this week on whether to authorize a walkout after rejecting a contract offer. The vote comes ahead of the iconic Pennsylvania theme park's May 21 summer 2026 season opening, where operations will ramp up amid a critical period for the largest park in the state.

If a union strike vote is authorized, the park could face delays for its summer opening, or reduced ride availability and concert cancellations. Hersheypark has already opened on weekends this year and is currently set to open seven days a week beginning May 21. The Boardwalk water park is scheduled to open May 23. The Giant Center concert venue has several upcoming dates, including comedian Nate Bargatze on May 16, Khalid on May 23 and 5 Seconds of Summer on May 31.

Employees with the Chocolate Workers Local 464 at Hersheypark, the Hotel Hershey and Giant Center are seeking higher wages, more affordable health care plans and better pay for less desirable shifts, Inside the Magic reported. Results of the strike vote will be announced later this week.

Should you cancel your trip to Hersheypark?

Not yet. Hersheypark has not announced any closures or changes to its summer schedule, and operations are continuing as planned amid negotiations. The union has been negotiating with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts for months – and over a three-day period this week will decide on whether to stop work and go on strike. Should a strike occur, visitors with upcoming travel plans may want to monitor updates closely in case Hersheypark's opening is delayed and for how long.

For now, Hersheypark remains open Friday-Sunday as the park readies for its full summer opening, with no announced changes to its operations. Visitors with trips booked for late May or early June may want to keep an eye on their plans for any changes to the 2026 season.

Lori Comstock is a New Jersey-based news reporter covering trending news with USA TODAY Network's Mid-Atlantic Connect Team. She covers news in the Northeast, including New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Delaware, Washington, Maryland, and Virginia. Reach her at [email protected].